I got a 2001 xj with the 4.0 pretty much bone stock but every time I turn it on the first crank sounds like metal going all over the place my uncle said maybe flywheel loose but it kinda sounds like it’s coming from the oil pan or somewhere around there. Please help

 

Didi you just buy this? Did it do it when you test drove it?

Check the motor mounts and the exhaust pipe to see if the initial torque from starter is twisting the engine over and banging on something.

 

LH motor mount is typically shot on XJ (and many cars)...its hard to get access to, RH one will be no guide at all

remove flexplate cover, check each bolt for tight and if there is a crack in flexplate

pay close attention while someone else starts it..or vica versa

 

Certainly check your motor mounts as other stated, as well as Flexplate. All of those could lead to that. Could also be worth checking your starter too. Could be when its cold its not catching right when turned over. Seen that happen before.

 

To be a little more on the nose.... torque converter bolts check them as a lack of loctite/thread locker of some type they commonly losen up and scrape against the inspection cover - can't exactly check the flex plate bolts for torque unless that trans has been scooted back from the engine a little ways